a post-doctoral candidate in the field of (bio)organic chemistry

MPI für molek.Physiologie; Dortmund; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Becker group at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology in Dortmund seeks a post-doctoral candidate in (bio)organic chemistry to advance nucleic acid research and aptamer development. The ideal candidate recently earned a PhD in organic or bioorganic chemistry, with interest in SELEX (beneficial but not required), and a strong synthetic/analytical background.

The role covers synthesis of nucleic acid building blocks, collaborative projects, and potential for extended work within a

Qualifications

• Strong background in synthetic chemistry and analytical techniques.
• Sharp mind with problem-solving ability and organizational skills.
• Independence: ability to guide PhD Students in planning and implementing experiments.
• Conceptual thinking and innovative attitude: devising novel solutions.
• Team player with strong communication in a multi-disciplinary environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee nucleic acid chemistry and oligonucleotide synthesis.
• Conduct selection experiments to identify high-affinity aptamers.
• Collaborate with internal and external scientists to analyze results.
• Foster independent research initiatives within the lab.

Skills

Synthetic chemistry

Analytical techniques

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Independence

Conceptual thinking

Innovative thinking

Teamwork

Education

PhD in organic or bioorganic chemistry

Tools

SELEX

Job description

Post-Doctoral Candidate in the field of (bio)organic chemistry

Arbeitsort

Dortmund

Beginn

Post-doctoral position at Max-Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology. The Becker group at the Max-Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology is looking for a post-doctoral candidate in the field of (bio)organic chemistry to join our multi‑disciplinary team to work in the field of nucleic acid research. The Becker group (https://ccb.tu-dortmund.de/professuren/cb/becker/ and https://www.mpi-dortmund.mpg.de/research-groups/becker ) is a young and dynamic team that investigates the role of genetic modifications in DNA and RNA. These modifications expand the chemical diversity of nucleic acids, influencing their structure, function, and stability. By harnessing this chemical diversity, we aim to develop nucleic acid aptamers with enhanced functionality. Our research combines nucleic acid chemistry, solid‑phase DNA/RNA synthesis, and advanced methodologies such as next‑generation sequencing and mass spectrometry for the analysis of nucleic acids and their modifications. This work holds potential for the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who has recently obtained (or be about to receive) a PhD in organic or bioorganic chemistry with a keen interest in nucleic acid research. Experience with Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) is beneficial but not required.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Strong background in synthetic chemistry and analytical techniques.
• Sharp mind: adept at problem‑solving and possessing exceptional organizational skills.
• Independence: ability to guide PhD Students in planning and implementing experiments.
• Conceptual skills and innovative thinking: proficiency in understanding complex experimental setups, devising novel solutions or adapting existing ones to tackle challenges.
• Team player: strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a multi‑disciplinary team are essential for success in this role.

The primary objective of this role is to oversee nucleic acid chemistry and oligonucleotide synthesis, supporting the lab's core research areas. Key responsibilities include synthesizing nucleic acid building blocks, incorporating them into oligonucleotides, and conducting selection experiments to identify high‑affinity aptamers. The position offers opportunities for collaboration with internal and external scientists to analyse and interpret novel findings using innovative methods. This role will contribute to ongoing projects while fostering the development of independent research initiatives.

The position is available immediately and is limited to 18 months with the possibility of prolongation. Financial compensation will be carried out according to the public service remuneration scheme TVöD BUND.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity within its workforce.

Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.